Top 5 Things to Do in Gothenburg if You're Visiting in June!
June is the best time to experience Gothenburg. The city thrums with summer energy as the days stretch into the evening, outdoor venues spring to life, and the water becomes the heart of everything worth doing. Whether you're here for West Pride—Gothenburg's pride festival celebrating love and diversity from 8–14 June, the traditional Midsummer celebrations in late June, or simply to make the most of the Swedish summer, June offers something unforgettable.
If you're visiting Gothenburg in June, here are our top five things to do:
1. Take a guided city kayak tour with Plums
There's no better way to understand Gothenburg than from the water. Plums' guided city kayak tours paddle you through the heart of the city, past the striking Opera House, through peaceful canals, and under historic bridges while experienced guides share the stories and architecture that shape this water-built city.
In June, the water is calm, the days are long, and the city is alive with summer visitors. A two-hour guided tour lets you see everything—from the impressive Maritime Museum to the leafy botanical gardens—at a pace you control, free from the noise and crowds of city streets. Whether you're a first-time paddler or an experienced kayaker, this is the quintessential Gothenburg experience.
Perfect for: Anyone visiting for the first time, couples seeking a unique date, or travelers who want expert knowledge and insider stories.
2. Celebrate West Pride in the streets and on the water
West Pride takes place from 8–14 June with hundreds of exciting events and the Pride Parade as the highlight. The city transforms into a celebration of love and diversity. Combine street festivities with a morning kayak tour for a unique way to see the city before the crowds arrive, or take an evening paddle to experience the water-lit celebrations reflected in the canals.
Perfect for: Anyone visiting during pride week who wants a unique vantage point of the celebrations.
3. Experience Swedish Midsummer traditions
Swedish Midsummer is celebrated in late June every year in Gothenburg, with celebrations in the city park Slottsskogen and on picturesque islands in the Gothenburg archipelago. Experience this unique Swedish tradition—complete with maypoles, herring, and celebrations that stretch into the midnight light.
The archipelago islands are particularly magical during Midsummer. Consider paddling out on a rental kayak to explore the islands, or book a guided tour to reach more remote celebration spots.
Perfect for: Travelers wanting to experience authentic Swedish summer culture.
4. Experience the magic of a sunset kayak paddle
June is when Gothenburg's summer truly reveals itself. With extended daylight and the glow of evening light reflecting off the water, an evening paddle is pure magic. Plums' sunset kayak tours take you out as the city bathes in golden light—a peaceful, romantic experience perfect for couples or small groups.
Watch the city lights flicker on as the sun sinks lower, paddle past the illuminated Opera House, and feel the peace that only comes from being on the water at dusk. These tours are intimate and atmospheric—the best way to cap off a June day in Gothenburg.
Perfect for: Couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a memorable evening on the water.
5. Rent a kayak and explore at your own pace
Want freedom to chart your own course? Plums' kayak rentals at Lilla Bommen give you complete flexibility to explore Gothenburg's waterways however you please. Paddle the city canals at dawn, take a leisurely afternoon drift, or challenge yourself with a longer adventure.
June offers ideal conditions—calm water, reliable weather, and endless daylight to explore. Whether you want a gentle 1-2 hour paddle or an ambitious full-day expedition, rental kayaks are ready to take you wherever you want to go.
Perfect for: Experienced paddlers, independent travelers, or anyone wanting the freedom to explore on their own terms.
Make the most of June in Gothenburg
June is when Gothenburg truly comes alive. From pride celebrations to Midsummer traditions, from long daylight hours to calm summer waters, the city offers something magical for every visitor.
At Plums, we believe the water is where you'll find the best of it. A guided city tour connects you to Gothenburg's history and architecture. A sunset paddle becomes an evening you'll never forget. A kayak rental gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Whether you're celebrating with the city, chasing long summer days, or simply wanting to experience Gothenburg like a local, paddling puts you in the heart of it all.
Book your June adventure with Plums here and experience the city from the water.